Places to stay near Drake University

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Top-rated holiday rentals near Drake University

Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness and more.

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Top Guest favourite
A vibrant living room features a curvy orange couch, complementing a playful area rug with geometric patterns. A glass window allows natural light to illuminate the space, highlighting the eclectic decor on a nearby shelf. Seating includes a striped chair and a coffee table.
Home in Des Moines
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 282 reviews

MidCentury, technicolor Ranch w/yard, w+d, parking

- Ranch home in Des Moines' friendly Beaverdale neighborhood - Steps from grocery store, ice cream shop+dining - Blocks to more dining+shops - Less than 5 minutes from Drake University - Around 10 minutes from downtown, Des Moines, Arts Center, parks - Easy access within 15 minutes to suburbs - 1000+ feet with open living, dining and kitchen, 2 beds, 1 bath, laundry and on-site parking - Outdoor front porch, back patio+fire pit - Perfect for a family or two couples ***Send your special requests!

Guest favourite
A hot tub is highlighted against a wooden privacy screen, with several spa robes hanging nearby. Soft lighting adds warmth to the scene, while a serene sunset enhances the inviting ambiance of the outdoor space.
Home in Des Moines
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 150 reviews

Heartland BNB~Hot Tub~Sauna~fire table~2 kings

Comfort and convenience await your arrival at this centrally located home just minutes from downtown Des Moines and next to Ingersoll nightlife. This home has been newly renovated and designed for traveling families and business professionals alike. Soak away the stress in the 7 person hot tub or sweat it all out in the outdoor 5 person sauna! Grill on the patio and relax by the fire, before going to sleep in 2 very stylish and comfortable king bedrooms located on the main floor. Book Now!!

Top Guest favourite
A spacious living area features large windows, offering expansive views of the skyline. Modern furnishings include a cozy couch, two accent chairs, and a coffee table. A sleek electric fireplace is positioned beneath a wall-mounted TV, enhancing the contemporary design of the space.
Townhouse in Des Moines
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 131 reviews

This is the best Des Moines has to offer!

Welcome to a beautiful 3 story townhome in the heart of Des Moines. If an upscale modern home with an incredible view is your thing, you will be in heaven. Inside you’ll find a clean, bright and well decorated home with all the amenities you'll need to kick back, relax and enjoy your stay. Minutes from shopping, dining and nightlife. The bike trail is across the street where you can ride to Gray’s Lake or stroll to downtown DSM and enjoy the Farmer's Market, Civic Center and Principal Park.

Top Guest favourite
A welcoming entrance features an orange door adorned with a panel of glass. The 'Welcome' sign is prominently displayed on one side, while a 'Bed & Breakfast' sign decorates the other. A doormat lies at the entrance, enhancing the inviting atmosphere.
Home in Des Moines
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 221 reviews

Gateway House

Our 100% SMOKE-FREE Gateway House is nestled just west of beautiful Downtown Des Moines. I-235 is 90 seconds away, putting you downtown in 5 minutes, and anywhere else in 15 minutes! Ingersoll Avenue, home to dozens of locally owned restaurants and bars, is a 2–3-minute drive and a 5-10-minute walk. Our charming bungalow has everything you need to function! We proudly display artwork that accents the culture our city has to offer, and you will feel relaxed indoors and out during your stay.

Guest favourite
A dining area is highlighted by a round glass table surrounded by four upholstered chairs. Natural light filters through two large windows, enhancing the cozy atmosphere. A decorative circular mirror adorns one wall, while hardwood flooring adds warmth to the space.
Home in Des Moines
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 117 reviews

Drake neighborhood cottage

Great location, close to Drake University (less than 2 miles). Two Master, King bed bedrooms each with newly renovated bathrooms, with beautiful tile showers and smart toilets. This is a cozy home that is perfect for four adults, or a family of four. Newly remodeled kitchen with new refrigerator, gas range and dishwasher. Hardwood floors throughout the home, with tiled kitchen and baths. Conveniently located within a short walk to the Waveland Cafe (300 ft), a favorite breakfast spot.

Superhost
A contemporary tiny house exterior is showcased, featuring a wooden facade and a garage below. A private deck rests atop, surrounded by greenery. Large windows allow natural light, while the entrance is framed by two sleek doors, blending modern aesthetics with a welcoming appeal.
Tiny home in Des Moines
4.83 out of 5 average rating, 185 reviews

Des Moines' coolest Tiny Home! +Deck/garage

Kick back and enjoy this calm, stylish tiny house. In an awesome location near downtown, it's the perfect place for a memorable stay in Des Moines! (Fall 2025*, please note there is an active new construction project next door- which shouldn't effect your peace or experience.) You can easily walk to great bars, restaurants, grocery, etc. Peaceful and large deck to relax and unwind.. Convenient garage parking included! *Large trucks may not fit fully in garage. Tiny house experience! 🛖

Top Guest favourite
A comfortable living area features a black leather sofa adorned with light-colored pillows, complemented by a dark brown ottoman. Soft light emanates from a floor lamp against a navy wall, while sheer curtains gently filter natural light. A massage chair is visible in the background.
Place to stay in Des Moines
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 355 reviews

Historic 1-bedroom carriage house apartment

Located in the heart of the Sherman Hill Historic District, this charming one bedroom carriage house has everything you need whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure. It features a plush king bed that guests rave about, a 50” television, massage chair, fully stocked kitchen, large shower, high end linens and beautiful courtyard. The property is within walking distance to downtown, historic Hoyt Sherman Place Theater, restaurants, a world class sculpture park and live entertainment.

Guest favourite
The living space features a modern gray sectional sofa complemented by a green armchair. A coffee table rests on a patterned rug. Two floral artworks adorn the wall, while warm lighting is provided by standing lamps. Natural light enters through multiple windows.
Home in Des Moines
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 351 reviews

Cozy Historic Escape

This comfortable bungalow is stylish with historic charm. The front porch is perfect for morning coffee. The main living space has original hardwood floors and classic brick fireplace with craftsman style built-ins. The house also has fenced in backyard with patio for enjoying temperate days. It is centrally and conveniently located close to Des Moines Playhouse, ~6 minutes from Casey’s Center and Downtown Des Moines, ~13 minutes to Jordan Creek Town Center, and ~15 minutes to DSM Airport.

Top Guest favourite
A warm living area features a brown leather sofa with decorative blue pillows, positioned next to a round coffee table on a soft area rug. A blue armchair complements the seating arrangement, and natural light enters through nearby windows. Archways lead into the adjoining rooms.
Home in Des Moines
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 223 reviews

Peaceful Setting & Modern Style

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and retreat to your own private oasis with this charming 2 Bedroom Airbnb. The house provides present-day amenities while still honoring the original 1930s character. You’ll enjoy a new and sparkling clean kitchen, complete with all the appliances and utensils you need. The bathroom, laundry, dining room, reading nook and living room have all been beautifully updated as well, ensuring that you'll feel right at home from the moment you arrive.

Guest favourite
The exterior of the duplex features a welcoming porch with multiple seating areas, surrounded by a spacious lawn. The house showcases a combination of red and green siding, with a steep roofline and large windows that invite natural light.
Home in Des Moines
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 114 reviews

The Carol Anne-Charming 2bd/2ba Victorian near DT!

This Victorian-era duplex is the perfect mix of Victorian and modern for all the comforts of home. Perfect for quick or extended trips. Location can't be beat: Walking distance to Drake University. Minutes by car to downtown, hospitals, Ingersoll district and proximity to I-235 gets you anywhere in the city. Off street parking/electronic locks make check-in a easy. 2 large bedrooms w/queen beds, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, laundry, closets, and more making it ideal for multiple guests!

Superhost
A spacious living area features a large sectional sofa with colorful pillows, a coffee table, and a vibrant area rug. A flat-screen television is positioned for viewing, complemented by natural light from windows. A staircase leads to the upper level, enhancing the room's open design.
Home in Des Moines
4.86 out of 5 average rating, 287 reviews

•Cozy Cottage Grove 2 king beds•

This beautifully restored home is centrally located near downtown Des Moines. Close to restaurants, entertainment, and tons of activities. The house sleeps 8 comfortably with 2 king beds (one on main level), 2 queen beds, and a twin trundle upstairs. There are 2 bathrooms (one on main level adjacent to bedroom). Enjoy your coffee on the massive front porch setae during the warmer months or private backyard oasis with lots of room to run! We look forward to hosting you.

Top Guest favourite
A spacious living area features a round marble coffee table at its center, surrounded by various seating options. A pendant light hangs from the ceiling, while a staircase is visible in the background. Natural light enhances the warmth of the wooden flooring.
Home in Des Moines
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 134 reviews

Winter Stay by Ingersoll Ave & Drake Univ

Cozy, winter-ready home one block from Ingersoll Ave and minutes from Drake University. Enjoy fast Wi-Fi, a dedicated workspace, comfortable beds, and a fully equipped kitchen for warm nights in. Walk to Ingersoll’s restaurants and coffee shops, with easy access to Downtown DSM and Drake. Self check-in and easy parking make this ideal for remote workers, business travelers, families, and extended winter stays. ✨ Weekly and monthly winter discounts available.

Popular amenities for holiday rentals near Drake University

  1. Airbnb
  2. United States
  3. Iowa
  4. Polk County
  5. Des Moines
  6. Drake University